FAQs

We get a lot of questions about yoga! Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive.

Do I have to be flexible to do yoga?

Absolutely not. In fact, it’s the very reason to come to a yoga class. Not only will you see an increase in flexibility, but you will also work on building muscle, improve respiration, energy and vitality, as well as pulmonary and circulatory function. You do not have to be in peak physical condition to start yoga!

What should I bring to a class?

For any yoga class you attend, you should bring your yoga mat, a bottle of water, a yoga block or strap if you need one, as well as any other items specific to a class, such as a yoga mat towel for hot yoga. We have more information for first-time visitors here.

What should I wear to a class?

First and foremost, wear something comfortable that you can move around in. Do not wear socks or shoes in yoga classes. Doing so can cause you to slip on your yoga mat. If you are attending one of our hot classes (a class that takes place in a heated infrared room), we do suggest that you wear a fitted capri legging or full legging with good wicking to draw moisture away from the skin. While you are welcome to wear shorts to a hot class, your legs will most likely become very sweaty and slippery. Leggings will prevent you from slipping in poses. Lastly, a fitted tank or tee will ensure that your shirt does not come up over your head during inverted poses, such as forward folds.

Can I practice yoga if I have an injury?

As with any physical activity, you should always consult your physician to make sure you understand any limitations you may have. Generally speaking, you should always avoid doing anything that causes discomfort in a yoga class. In many situations, a modified pose may reduce the risk of exacerbating existing injuries. Restorative yoga might also be a good class for you, as it focuses on poses that are low-risk to people with injuries. However, only your doctor can provide an educated recommendation about your level of physical activity.

I’m new to yoga. What’s the best class at Ganesha’s for me to start with?

Many of our classes are open to all levels of students, from beginners to advanced. In most cases, a few options are given for poses that allow everyone to practice at their own comfort level. We also offer a beginner’s yoga class for those who need to become more acquainted with yoga and the terminology of the poses. Gentle and restorative yoga classes are great for beginners who may not possess a great deal of flexibility or range of motion yet. If you are looking for more meditative classes, a Kundalini class would be a good fit, and is open to all levels. If you have particular questions about beginning yoga, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to make suggestions and offer solutions to help you grow deeper in your practice!

Will people laugh at me?

No one will laugh at you, but we hope you’ll laugh at yourself! Practicing yoga is largely personal and internal, and our students are taught to focus only on their own personal practice. We are always quick to point out that no one’s practice is perfect, and even the most advanced student can sometimes fall out of a pose. If you fall out of a pose, we encourage you to simply come back into the pose. If you feel silly doing a certain pose, laugh at yourself and open yourself to accepting yourself in that moment!There’s no judgement here.

What happens if I can’t do a pose?

At Ganesha’s, the effort is all that matters. If you can’t hold a pose, or if you can’t even get into a pose, that’s okay. You can either try a modified version of the pose, which are usually given by your teacher, or you can simply rest in Child’s Pose until the class transitions into the next pose. Accept what your body can and can’t do. Almost every student and teacher has poses that they either modify or simply substitute with another pose.

What is all that chanting about?

There are many studios that have abandoned one of the most beautiful practices of yoga, which is the mind-body connection. Chanting is the yoga of sound. As we sit together at the beginning of class, we all have different thoughts with which we enter the studio. When we begin class with chanting ‘Om’ (the sound of universal consciousness) or other Sanskrit mantras, there is only one thought and rhythm in all of our minds. This oneness creates a profound energy. Different mantras invoke different states of consciousness, such as self-awareness and harmony with all living things. Essentially, mantras help us to be in the present so we can fully benefit from our yoga practice.

Where did yoga originate?

Yoga originated in India with emphasis on Hindu philosophy and mysticism. Despite more than a century of research, there is no clear consensus about the exact date of origin of yoga. It is speculated that it may have originated back in pre-Vedic Indian traditions, but it was most likely around the sixth and fifth centuries BCE. One of the key surviving historical and mystical texts, The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, is believed to be from the first millenium CE. Yoga as we know it today was popularized in the early 20th century by a yogi named T. Krishnamacharya (1888-1989). His students and relatives further expanded the reach of his teachings and have made yoga what it is today. Fun fact: During the early years of yoga, only certain members of society, such as scholars, could practice it! Today, Western society has commercialized the practice and made it accessible for everyone.

Do I have to subscribe to a religion to practice yoga?

No. You can practice any religion or no religion at all and still reap the benefits of yoga. It is a universal practice.

Is it expensive to join Ganesha’s?

We are pleased to offer a variety of package options that fit almost any budget. A membership to our studio is comparative to most gym memberships. If a membership isn’t for you, you also have the option of paying a drop-in fee for each class, or you can purchase packs of classes that you can use at any time. Class packs never expire. Check out our Membership and Rates page for all of our pricing info.

Does it get crowded in classes?

Classes are usually well-attended, but a few classes tend to become full. Evening classes and hot yoga classes generally fill up faster than classes that take place during the day. We only allow a certain number of students in each class in order to maximize your personal experience, so you won’t see 50 students in a class here. It is important to reserve a spot in any class you wish to attend in order to ensure that you have a spot.

Where are you located?

We are conveniently located at 7-A Dundas Circle in Greensboro, just off of Spring Garden Street and Pomona Drive. We are a short, 5 minute drive from I-40/I-85.